Peer Review Process

Voices of Culture and Linguistics Analysis (VoCAL) employs a prompt and impartial double-blind review process to ensure the scholarly quality of published articles. Under the double-blind review system, both reviewers and authors remain anonymous. This anonymity helps prevent reviewer bias, such as bias based on the author's country of origin or previous controversial works. Manuscripts authored by prominent or renowned scholars are evaluated strictly on their academic merit rather than author reputation. This policy adheres to the Code of Conduct and Ethical Guidelines for Peer Reviewers established by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).
All manuscripts submitted to this journal undergo peer review. If a manuscript is deemed potentially suitable for VoCAL following initial editorial screening, the editor will forward it to peer reviewers. Every manuscript is evaluated by at least two (2) expert reviewers under a double-blind review system (where the identities of both reviewers and authors remain anonymous). The review process typically takes 2 to 4 months. Manuscripts accepted with minor or major revisions must be revised in accordance with the reviewers' comments and suggestions. Reviewers then submit their evaluation report and recommendation to the editor:
  1. Accept Submission
  2. Revisions Required
  3. Resubmit for Review
  4. Resubmit Elsewhere
  5. Decline Submission
The final decision regarding acceptance, revision, or rejection is made by the Editor based on the reviewers' comments and recommendations. In certain cases, if necessary, the editor may forward the manuscript to additional reviewers for a second round of review before making a decision. The publication of accepted manuscripts, including the scheduling and publication sequence, is determined by the Editor-in-Chief, considering the submission date, geographical distribution of authors, and thematic issues. The timeline from initial submission to publication typically ranges between 7 months and 1 year, with an average duration of 6 months.